SOT: Need machinist input on project idea Options

[Dr Evil]

I am looking at my options on machining my corvair/VW power plant for the bus. I have come up with a few questions and realize that I have largely been going at this alone and could use input from those who know more than me.
1) I am considering taking the money I would spend to have the p/c machined and buying a mini mill so I can do it myself. Is this foolish? Is it possible? To see what I am going to need to do, look below.

Trim the type 1 cylinder skirt, and drill new holes in the fins for the corvair head stud pattern:



Trim piston skirts to make room for opposing rod end and bolt:


Trim center cylinder side fins down:


2) I will also need to get the block and heads bored out, the valve guides replaced and reamed to the right size, and the rods punched out and oil holes added. If anyone here is up to doing that stuff, let me know as I am looking for a less expensive alternative. But, for the cylinders and pistons, I am considering trying it myself.

[Dr Evil]

I wouldnt attempt boring the block of heads on a mini mill. I was looking to see if anyone would do it. The stuff I am thinking of tackling is the piston and cylinder stuff, only. The rods, block and heads are cheap enough to get done local or at a friends, but the one guy I know wants $500 to do the p/c and I could buy a mill and do it myself, I think.

I am supposedly hearing back by tomorrow on a local shop that a friend of mine knows. I just ordered the p/c as I figured that having them in hand would be a nice start.

I like your synopsis on the hows, Steven. I'll have to call ya and chat this weekend, maybe.